June 7, 2014 Editorial: Mental Health Awareness

Sarah Smith, KMBC and KCWE President and General Manager

Mental illness is often discussed in the aftermath of senseless acts of violence by assailants with a history of mental illness. Lawmakers and advocates on both sides of the gun debate are considering laws to toughen background checks and restrict gun permits for individuals with troubled mental pasts.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that one in four adults in the U.S. suffers from a mental disorder. But not every individual afflicted with mental illness acts out violently. Many have conditions that when managed properly, allow them to live long and productive lives.

Recently local leaders, including a dozen mental health organizations, met to form the Greater Kansas City Mental Health Coalition. We applaud their efforts to promote an open discussion. Mental illness must no longer be cloaked in the same silence that once shamed aids patients. Awareness is the first step toward action in treating an illness that impacts us all, and too often, tragically so.